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King Solomon’s Mines · Chapter

X: The Witch-Hunt explained

Infadoos explains the tyranny of King Twala and the brutal witch-hunt ritual.

What happens

Infadoos explains the tyranny of King Twala and the brutal witch-hunt ritual. Umbopa reveals himself as Ignosi, the rightful heir to the Kukuana throne, by showing the snake tattoo. Infadoos pledges to rally the chiefs and regiments for a rebellion. The chapter culminates in the horrific witch-hunt where Gagool and her witch-doctresses 'smell out' and execute dozens of victims, with Twala counting each death.

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.

SetupEscalationAftermathClimax
  • Setup
  • Escalation
  • Breaking point
  • Aftermath
  • Closing

This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of impending d…

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Themes in this chapter

  • Violence and Warfare

    The witch-hunt is a brutal display of state-sanctioned violence, with mass executions ordered by King Twala.

  • Superstition and Magic

    Gagool and the witch-doctresses use ritualistic dancing and divination to 'smell out' wizards, demonstrating the power of superstition in Kukuana society.

  • Loyalty and Brotherhood

    Infadoos pledges loyalty to Ignosi, and the white men stand by him as friends, forming a bond of brotherhood against tyranny.

Characters to notice

  • Allan Quatermain

    Narrates the chapter; questions Infadoos about Twala's cruelty and later observes the witch-hunt with horror.

  • Infadoos

    Explains the tyranny of Twala and the witch-hunt; later recognizes Ignosi and agrees to rally support for his claim.

  • Ignosi

    Reveals his true identity as the rightful king by showing the snake tattoo; recounts his survival and journey.

  • Twala

    Presides over the witch-hunt, ordering executions and counting the dead.

  • Gagool

    Commands the witch-doctresses during the witch-hunt; orchestrates the 'smelling out' of victims.

  • Scragga

    Echoes the kill command with a hollow chuckle during the executions.

  • Sir Henry Curtis

    Present during the witch-hunt; wears the chain armour sent by Twala.

  • Captain John Good

    Present during the witch-hunt; comments on the silence of the army and later compares Twala to Madame Defarge.

Key passages

  • “It is the great witch-hunt, and many will be smelt out as wizards and slain. No man's life is safe.”

    Infadoos warns that the witch-hunt will result in many innocent people being accused and killed.

    Sets the stage for the brutal ritual.

  • “I am Ignosi, rightful king of the Kukuanas!”

    Umbopa declares his true identity as the legitimate heir to the throne.

    Key revelation that changes the political landscape.

  • “Kill! said the king. Kill! squeaked Gagool. Kill! reechoed Scragga, with a hollow chuckle.”

    The king, Gagool, and Scragga all command the execution of the accused wizard.

    Illustrates the collective cruelty of the ruling powers.

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